Controversial Lagos socialite and nightlife entrepreneur Mike Nwalie, popularly known as Pretty Mike, has expressed deep gratitude following his full discharge and acquittal in a high-profile drug-related case brought by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). In an emotional Instagram post, the owner of Proxy Lagos nightclub described the ordeal as “very challenging, emotional and overwhelming” while announcing that he is now focused on rebuilding.
The case originated on October 26, 2025, when NDLEA operatives raided Proxy Lagos, during what the agency described as an ongoing drug party. Operatives recovered 169 cylinders of nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas) weighing 384.662 kilograms, along with 200 grams of cannabis sativa. Over 100 patrons, including Pretty Mike and the club’s supervisor Joachim Hillary, were arrested and taken into custody for screening.
Pretty Mike and Hillary were later arraigned before a Federal High Court in Ikoyi on a three-count charge bordering on conspiracy, unlawful possession of narcotics, and knowingly permitting the club premises to be used for illicit drug activities. They pleaded not guilty and were granted bail of N50 million each on November 7, 2025. The NDLEA had also filed for interim forfeiture of the nightclub itself, describing it as an instrumentality of crime.
After the prosecution closed its case, defence counsel Chikaosolu Ojukwu (SAN) filed a no-case submission, arguing that the evidence presented was insufficient and failed to establish any direct link between the defendants and the recovered substances. On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa upheld the submission. The judge ruled that the NDLEA had not proved a prima facie case, describing the prosecution’s evidence as weak and based largely on suspicion. Both Pretty Mike and Hillary were discharged without being called upon to open their defence.
In his Instagram message, Pretty Mike gave glory to God for strength and protection throughout the ordeal.
“Even in uncertain moments, He remained my anchor, and for that I am deeply grateful.”
He extended heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, supporters, partners, Team Divine Majesty, media outlets, and everyone who stood by him with prayers and encouragement.
He specifically appreciated his legal team, stating,
“I also sincerely appreciate my legal team at Ojukwu Chikaosolu (SAN) & his well-articulated team of Esquires and everyone involved in ensuring due process.”
In a notable gesture, he thanked the NDLEA, saying,
“I also want to say a big thank you to the entire Ndlea department, for doing their best to ensure that our country, state, streets and borders continue to stay Drug free.”
Pretty Mike concluded by acknowledging the toll the experience had taken but expressed readiness to move forward.
“This experience has been very challenging, emotional and overwhelming but I start rebuilding as I move forward with gratitude. Thanks to you all.”
The development marks the end of a difficult chapter for the popular socialite, whose club had remained under scrutiny since the raid.